1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Kia Sorento
To start off, 2011 Kia Sorento is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Sorento (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Sorento weights approximately 407 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Kia Sorento, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Kia Sorento (336 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Kia Sorento | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | SL | Sorento |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1767 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1735 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
